Abstract:D. H. Lawrence (1885-1930) was one of the most creative and controversial novelists in the 20th century English literary world. A commentator once said: “The emergence of Lawrence was undoubtedly like a strong earthquake to English literary world in the 20th century. It was only after the aftershocks that people fully realize its influence” (候维瑞,1985:239). Sons and Loves was one of Lawrence’s masterpieces. The language of the novel is simple, but it is shocking and sensational. It has sensationalized the entire British society and literary world and has become a focus of research and controversy. The whole novel was based on the author’s childhood life, and described the love journey of the hero Paul. The paper will analyze the reasons for Paul’s love tragedy, mainly from the three aspects to discuss: social background, family environment as well as personal and lover’s character influence. Thereby, to explore the practical significance of this novel in today’s society, namely, how did individuals to realize the harmonious development of soul and body.

Key words: Sons and Lovers; love tragedy; social background; family environment; personal and lover’s character influence.

Contents

Abstract

中文摘要

Introduction-1

I. Social Background-5

A. The Impact of the Industrial Revolution-5

B. Feminist Awakening-6

II. Family Environment-9

A. The Lack of Paternal Love-9

B. Excessive Control of the Mother-10

III. Personal and Lover’s Character Influence-13

A.Character of Paul-13

B.Character of Miriam-13

C.Character of Clara-14

Conclusion-17

Bibliography-18

Acknowledgements-19